The makers of the highly anticipated film Kantara: Chapter 1 have issued a statement clarifying the circumstances surrounding the recent tragic death of a junior artiste, MF Kapil. The production house, Hombale Films, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and friends of the deceased.
Initial reports had indicated that the 33-year-old artiste tragically drowned on May 6th while swimming in a river near Kollur, where the film’s shooting was underway. However, Hombale Films has explicitly stated that the unfortunate incident did not occur on the film set or during any film-related activity.
In their official statement released on Thursday, the production house emphasized that no filming was scheduled for that particular day, and the incident took place during Kapil’s personal time, entirely outside the scope of his work on the movie.
“We are deeply saddened by the untimely passing of junior artist M.F. Kapil. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” 1 the statement read. “In light of recent discussions, we would like to respectfully clarify that the incident did not occur on the sets of Kantara. No filming was scheduled on that day, and the unfortunate event took place during his personal engagement, outside the scope of any film-related activit.
The makers further appealed to the public and media to refrain from drawing any unverified connections between the tragic event and the film or its crew. “We sincerely request everyone to refrain from drawing unverified associations with the film or its crew,” they concluded.
This clarification comes in the wake of a statement from the All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA), which expressed deep sorrow over Kapil’s death and called for a thorough investigation into the matter. The AICWA also demanded an FIR against actor-director Rishab Shetty and the production house, along with financial compensation for the deceased’s family.
While the police have registered a case of unnatural death and are currently investigating the incident, the Kantara production team has maintained that the tragedy was unrelated to the film’s shooting schedule or location.
Kantara: Chapter 1 is a prequel to the critically acclaimed and commercially successful 2022 film Kantara, also starring and directed by Rishab Shetty. The prequel is slated for a theatrical release on October 2nd, 2025.
The production team has faced several challenges during the making of the film, including previous incidents like a bus accident involving junior artistes and damage to sets due to adverse weather conditions. This latest tragedy has undoubtedly cast a shadow over the production.
As the investigation into the unfortunate demise of MF Kapil continues, the makers of Kantara: Chapter 1 have reiterated their deepest condolences to his family, hoping they find strength and peace during this difficult time.